Top 5 Weight Loss Myths

1.Spot Reduction. This is a very common misconception and the one I see the most. Clients always point to body parts and say, “I want to get rid of this”. Strength training the specific area you think is your “problem area” will not make your body lose weight in that area. In the end, it may actually over time make you look larger because you’re building muscle below the subcutaneous fat. STOP trying to spot reduce NOW. We have no control which fat stores our body’s access. An exercise regimen focused on all areas of your body is much more beneficial, and will not create unnecessary muscular imbalances. If someone tells you can spot reduce (probably so they can make a sale) RUN.

2.You Can Do It Alone. I’m not saying go out and hire a personal trainer-although I do know a great one who I highly recommend. Successful, long term weight loss is about a lifestyle change. Not fad diets or exercise regimens. It is about sustaining. You will have bad days. You will miss a workout. You will have cheat meals. You did not get where you are alone. Stress, work, family, life all helped you, and you will need help to get to a better you. Find a support system because that is what you will need to be truly successful. But always remember, your appearance does not define you. Appearance should not be your main source of motivation.

3.You Have No Time. The idea you need to spend hours in the gym to lose weight is a complete myth. Having no time is nothing but an excuse. I lost 120lbs working full time and going to school. You do not have to spend hours working out to lose weight. I keep saying that weight loss in its simplest terms is calories in vs. calories out. Find out what your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is. This is the total calories you can consume for your body to remain at its current weight. How many calories in a 1lbs of fat? 3500. If your BMR is 2000, you would need to eat 1500 calories a day to lose 1lbs a week. OR- Eat 2000 calories and burn 500 a day exercising. Best way to burn calories? Aerobic exercise-walking, running, swimming, cycling.

4.It Is Going To Take Time. The idea that you can lose 20lbs before the wedding you are to attend 5 weeks away is a myth. There is NO magic answer. The healthy amount of weight loss per week is 1-2lbs. Do not waste your money on fad diets and workout routines that may give you short term results for what may be a long term problem. Tap into your inner strength and do it the right way. I promise, you will be much happier with the over all results.

5. I Need To Join A Gym. I am walking proof that a gym is not necessary to become healthy. You must replace bad habits with good ones, and the gym is not where the bad habits are occurring. I turned my dining room in my one bedroom apartment into my ‘gym’. Our great, great, great ancestors knew no such luxury as gym and fancy equipment. They had their bodies and the great outdoors. Take a look around your house, there is fitness equipment everywhere, you just need to look with a different mindset.

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